Why Kidney Health Needs Your Attention in 2025

Kidneys are vital organs that filter waste, remove excess fluids, and keep your body in balance. They support red blood cell production and regulate blood pressure. When kidney function declines, waste builds up in the body, and serious complications can follow.

In 2025, kidney disease continues to affect millions worldwide. Early detection of kidney disease is more urgent than ever. That's why World Kidney Day—observed on March 13th—focuses on the theme: “Prioritising Early Detection for Healthy Kidneys.” The message is clear: catching kidney issues early can delay or prevent chronic disease and complications.

Types of Kidney Disease You Should Know

Understanding the types of kidney diseases can help identify and manage symptoms early:

• Acute Kidney Disease: This is a sudden, short-term decline in kidney function, usually lasting less than 3 months. It may result from injury, infection, or medication. With timely care, full recovery is often possible.
• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): A long-term condition where kidneys lose function over time. It’s defined by a filtration rate below 60 mL/min/1.73 m² for over three months. CKD often requires dialysis or a kidney transplant in its later stages.
• Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD): A genetic disorder marked by fluid-filled cysts in the kidneys. These cysts grow over time and may lead to kidney failure.
• Glomerulonephritis: This is inflammation of the kidney’s filtering units (glomeruli). It can cause symptoms like blood in urine and protein loss.
  Kidney Stones: Hard mineral deposits that form in the kidneys. They vary in size and can cause pain, nausea, and blood in urine when passed.

Symptoms That Could Signal Kidney Problems

Kidney disease often develops silently. Look out for these common symptoms:

• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• Swollen ankles
• Frequent or painful urination
• Blood in urine
• Foamy or cloudy urine
• Cramps
• Itchy skin
• Confusion in later stages

Top Causes Behind Kidney Disease

The most common causes include:

• Diabetes
• Hypertension
• Kidney infections
  Glomerulonephritis
• Polycystic kidney disease
• Bladder obstruction (e.g., enlarged prostate, bladder diverticula)
• Neurogenic bladder
• Dehydration or reduced blood flow
• Long-term use of certain medications

Understanding the root cause is the first step to managing the condition effectively.

Complications That Can Arise from Untreated Kidney Disease

Without proper treatment, kidney disease can lead to:

• Anaemia
• Bone weakness
• High blood pressure
• Fluid overload
• Gout
• Nerve damage
• Increased risk of heart attack or stroke

Early treatment can reduce the risk of these complications significantly.

Why Early Detection of Kidney Disease Matters

The early stages of kidney disease often have no obvious symptoms. Many people remain unaware until the disease is advanced. That's why routine screening is essential, especially if you have risk factors like diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney disease.

Key diagnostic tests include:

• Urine Tests: Detect protein, blood, crystals, or signs of infection.
• Blood Tests: Measure creatinine, urea, and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) to assess kidney function.
• Imaging: Ultrasound, X-rays, and CT scans help visualize structural problems, cysts, or stones.

Detecting kidney disease early helps manage the condition with fewer complications and better outcomes

Kidney Disease Treatment Options

The approach to treatment depends on the type and stage of kidney disease:

1. Dialysis (For Advanced CKD)

• Haemodialysis: A machine filters blood several times a week.
• Peritoneal Dialysis: A cleansing fluid flows through a catheter in the abdomen to remove waste.

2. Medications

• Antihypertensives: Lower blood pressure and reduce kidney stress.
• Diabetes Medications: Newer drugs may protect kidney function.
• Cholesterol-lowering Medicines: Reduce cardiovascular risks.
• Erythropoietin-stimulating Agents: Treat anaemia by encouraging red blood cell production

3. Lifestyle Modifications

• Stop smoking
• Avoid alcohol
• Reduce salt intake
• Exercise regularly
• Avoid over-the-counter painkillers unless advised
• Manage blood sugar and blood pressure

For many patients, these changes can slow disease progression and improve quality of life.

Conclusion

The early detection of kidney disease in 2025 is not just about preventing kidney failure—it’s about improving overall health outcomes. Many people are unaware they have kidney damage until symptoms become severe. Regular screening, especially for those with chronic conditions, can make all the difference.

Don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Know your risk. Get tested. Make the lifestyle changes that support long-term kidney health.

FAQs About Early Detection of Kidney Disease

1. Can kidney disease be reversed if caught early?
Some forms, especially acute kidney disease, can be reversed. Early chronic kidney disease may be managed to prevent progression.

2. What is the best test for detecting kidney disease early?
A blood test measuring creatinine and calculating eGFR, combined with a urine test for protein, offers the most accurate early detection.

3. How often should kidney function be checked?
People with diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney disease should get tested once a year or as advised by their doctor.

4. Is dialysis needed in early kidney disease?
No. Dialysis is typically used in the late stages. Early stages can often be managed with lifestyle changes and medication.

5. Are kidney problems painful?
Not always. Many forms of kidney disease are painless in the early stages. Pain is more common with kidney stones or infections.